Do you think you may be suffering from osteoarthritis?
When the cushion between your joints, or cartilage, breaks down, it is referred to as osteoarthritis. Without cushioning, bones rub against each other and stiffness, pain and loss of mobility are the result. The process is gradual, so you must remain in tune with your body and resist the tendency to rely on ibuprofen, or procrastinate a thorough exam.
What are the symptoms of osteoarthritis?
Sore or stiff joints when over or under used, especially in the hips, knees, and lower back is a key symptom and may occur in the following ways:
§ Stagnation pain: Stiffness after resting or pain that goes away after movement.
§ Deficiency pain: Worsening pain after activity or at the end of the day.
§ Weather related pain: Pain is worse in cold or damp weather.
Osteoarthritis affects your neck, finger joints, ankles, and toes. For some, the pain is moderate and remains so. For others, osteoarthritis makes it difficult to walk, climb stairs, and rest.
Common Causes of Osteoarthritis
§ Genetics – There are three genes that have been identified and correlated with osteoarthritis. The presence of these genes may increase your disease risk.
§ Knee injuries – A meniscus tear or ligament damage may increase osteoarthritis risk later in life. The tissue damage naturally leads to more inflammation.
§ Obesity — Extra weight puts more stress on the joints, increasing the likelihood of misalignment, and higher “satiety hormones” that increase osteoarthritis risk.
§ Wear and Tear and Aging — Time generally increases inflammation. Diet and lifestyle choices can greatly impact this cause.
Acupuncture Helps Improve Osteoarthritis Symptoms
Osteoarthritis is not a modern disease. Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine have long been successful in treating this ailment.
As Chinese Medicine advocates exercises for osteoarthritis, training with a physical therapist is an important part of acupuncture treatment. Topical herbs are also helpful.
Acupuncture treatments vary in number, but typically patients plan to go in once a week for a couple of months. The beauty of acupuncture is that it treats your entire body as well, for total wellbeing.
Read the full article here: Acupuncture for Osteoarthritis | George Mandler CNS LDN LicAc
